Reproductive medicine is continuously changing as we learn more about how the body works to conceive a child. The specialists at our fertility center are proud to be part of the ongoing research and study of certain infertility treatments. Learn about the embryo transfer process and what Dr. Shapiro recently discussed on how to best perform the procedure.
What is an Embryo Transfer?
During in vitro fertilization (IVF), the embryo transfer is a step in the process of assisted reproduction. The embryos, once created in the fertility center laboratory, are implanted inside the intended mother’s uterus to start a pregnancy. Many patients decide to undergo a two embryo transfer or multiple embryo transfer in order to increase their chances of getting pregnant.
Should I use frozen or fresh embryos for implantation?
In a recent article featured in BioNews, our very own Dr. Bruce Shapiro discussed how to optimize the in vitro fertilization process. Should we transfer only fresh embryos, or is it better to transfer and implant a frozen and thawed embryo?
Traditional reproductive medicine assumed that transferring fresh embryos was better than using frozen-thawed embryos, but recent studies have found the traditional view may be flawed. Experts are now pushing to freeze all embryos before transfer.
When fresh embryos are placed in the uterus for implantation, they may be placed in an environment that is not conducive to proper implantation and
development. In order to retrieve eggs for IVF, the female patient is treated with hormones to stimulate her ovaries to produce more eggs than it normally would. These medications can have a negative effect on the uterine lining in that cycle. If the embryos are frozen instead and the embryo transfer is performed after the next menstrual period, the uterine lining can “reset” and ready itself to better receive the embryo. Top reproductive specialists are now moving to freezing all embryos (instead of transferring fresh) in order to allow the uterus to recover after all the treatment and stimulation of the eggs. Recent reports suggest this results in better success rates and healthier babies.
The Fertility Center of Las Vegas was the first US clinic to publish findings on the benefits of frozen over fresh embryo transfer. Since then, more studies have been conducted, showing higher success rates for the transfer of frozen-thawed embryos than fresh embryos. Many others have shown that generally healthier babies are born from embryos that were frozen, thawed, and then transferred into a uterine environment that was not exposed to ovarian stimulation.
Trust The Fertility Center of Las Vegas
Our experts at The Fertility Center of Las Vegas work hard to improve the safety and success of reproductive medicine. It is our goal to find the best treatment options for our patients. Contact us today to find out your options for fertility treatments.
